Righteous Anger

Ezra was a devout servant of the Lord who made it a point to study and do all that the Lord commanded him to do. His zeal for God and God’s Law spurred Ezra to lead a group of Jews back to Israel to regather, survive, and rebuild what had once been destroyed.

To please the Lord, Ezra sought to help the people get closer to God and begin again a new life with Him. Instead, the people chose to break God’s commands (Deuteronomy 7:2-4) with their evil deeds and desires.

When Ezra heard the news of the people going against God’s will, he became very agitated. Ezra was so upset that he tore his clothes and pulled out his own hair.

“When I heard this, I tore my tunic and cloak, pulled hair from my head and beard and sat down appalled.” – Ezra 9:3

In the world today, rebellious people are constantly breaking God’s commands and going against everything that is good. When you see things like this on the news, social media, or even someone that you know in person, do you experience the same feelings of aggravation that Ezra had? If so, don’t pout by ripping your cloths and hair out! Do what Ezra did after he took time to cool down and go to the Lord with prayer (see Ezra 9:5-15). God is forgiving, and loving. He will hear your words and give you peace so that you may continue His work without distraction.